If you’re slapping on submissions and cranking, they’ll assume that’s the way to go. If you’re exploding out of positions, they’re almost forced to match that energy just to feel safe. When someone suddenly explodes in close contact, your nervous system doesn’t stop to analyze intent. It feels like a threat.

In jiu-jitsu, there often isn’t enough technical confidence yet to stay relaxed under pressure. So when one person spikes the intensity, the other person usually matches it. Not because they’re trying to prove something, but because they’re trying to protect themselves.

The tone of the round gets set early. If you don’t really know what you’re doing, and your partner doesn’t either, slow it down. Move at a speed where you can both think. That’s how you stay safe and productive.